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Ashley Gregor, an AgriLife Extension water program assistant in Weslaco, displays the tools needed to submit samples for a free soil testing campaign.

(AgriLife Communications photo by Rod Santa Ana)

Growers in the Lower Rio Grande Valley can save money while helping the environment by taking advantage of a free soil testing campaign, according to Ashley Gregory, a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service assistant for water programs in Weslaco.

“Agricultural producers from Hidalgo, Cameron and Willacy counties are encouraged to submit soil samples for a free analysis to help them determine the amount of nutrients in their soils,” Gregory said.

Proper nutrient amounts and placement help in the reduction of nonpoint source pollution into the Arroyo Colorado and the Lower Laguna Madre, both important waterways in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, she said.

“By knowing how much fertilizer is already in the soil, many growers have been able to cut down on the fertilizer they apply. That can amount to a huge cost savings, especially with rising fertilizer prices,” she said.